Guide Note

In March of 2007, following several pet deaths, distributors announced the largest pet food recall ever. After investigation, it was revealed that the tainted food contained wheat gluten contaminated with melamine.

Fast Facts

1. Over 150 brands of dog and cat food were recalled
2. ChemNutra imported the contaminated wheat gluten
3. Menu Foods Income Fund was the largest supplier of the tainted food
4. An estimated 1,500 pets died from eating the tainted food ¹
5. The tainted wheat gluten was imported from China
6. Melamine may have been added to increase the food's apparent protein content

On May 30, 2008, Menu Foods Income Fund announced that the New Jersey District Court had approved a preliminary settlement in the more than 100 class action lawsuits filed against suppliers of the tainted pet food. The proposed settlement would provide $24 million to reimburse pet owners for medical costs they incurred as a result of the contaminated food. A hearing for final approval of the settlement was scheduled for October 14, 2008.